Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that your whole family will love, The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices to create a delightful dinner. The slow cooking method allows all the flavors to blend together beautifully, making each bite delightful. You can set it up in the morning and come back to a warm, home-cooked meal in the evening, making it a perfect recipe for busy days.
Many people enjoy using a crockpot because it requires very little hands-on time. You don’t need to stand by the stove, and you can focus on other tasks while your meal is cooking. This recipe also has the added benefit of being comforting and filling, perfect for a family dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love a creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day?
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken, then add the grated Parmesan, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the crockpot.
- While the chicken is cooking, boil the pasta according to package directions, then drain.
- Add the drained pasta to the crockpot with the shredded chicken and creamy sauce, and pour in the heavy cream.
- Mix everything together well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making this recipe is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can prepare a mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress. The ingredients are basic and easy to find, making it accessible for many home cooks. Let’s dive right into the details of how to whip up this tasty meal.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
These ingredients are easy to gather, and you may already have some of them in your kitchen. The chicken provides protein, while the cream cheese and Parmesan create a rich and creamy sauce.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all the flavors from the ingredients you add next.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt evenly over the chicken. These seasonings add a wonderful depth of flavor, making your dish more enjoyable.
Add Liquid and Cheese: Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic. The cream cheese will help create that creamy texture you love in pasta dishes.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know the chicken is done when it is cooked through and tender. Using a meat thermometer helps ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot. Mixing the chicken with the sauce helps to combine the flavors beautifully.
Cook the Pasta: While your chicken is cooking, boil the pasta according to the package directions. Make sure to drain it when it’s done cooking so that your final dish isn’t too watery.
Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta into the crockpot with the shredded chicken and creamy sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half to make the dish even creamier. Mix everything together well, ensuring that every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
Serve Your Dish: Serve your pasta warm. For a special touch, you can top it with extra Parmesan cheese or sprinkle some chopped parsley for color and freshness.
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. The freshness of the salad can balance the richness of the creamy pasta. If you’d like, serve it in bowls and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for an added touch of flavor. The garnishing with parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
How to Store The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature. Place any remaining pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This dish will generally last for 3-4 days when stored correctly.
To reheat, you can microwave portions, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it from drying out. Stir well while heating to ensure the pasta warms evenly and remains creamy.
Tips to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Here are some helpful tips to make this recipe even better:
Chicken Options: You can use thighs instead of breasts if you prefer dark meat. They can add more flavor and remain juicy after slow cooking.
Add Vegetables: Consider tossing in some veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to add more nutrients and color. Add them in the last hour of cooking so they don’t get too soft.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. Mixing in mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses can create unique flavors.
Pasta Choices: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you or anyone eating has dietary restrictions. Just be mindful, as gluten-free pasta can cook differently.
Adjust Seasoning: If you prefer more spice, add red pepper flakes or use a seasoned chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Variations
This recipe is versatile, and you can make several variations based on your preferences. For instance, you can turn this into a baked dish by transferring the contents to a baking dish after combining with the pasta. Top it with breadcrumbs and bake it in the oven until golden brown for a delightful twist.
Another idea is to switch out the cheese for a dairy-free option if you have dietary restrictions. Many brands offer great alternatives that melt well and can create a tasty creamy sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I cook this recipe on high if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can cook this recipe on high for 2-3 hours instead of on low for 4-5 hours. Just make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before shredding.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, rotini, and similar shapes are great for holding onto the sauce. However, you can use any pasta you enjoy, just be mindful of the cooking time for different types.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Now you have everything you need to prepare The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the smiles it brings to your dinner table!